Although we have a popular number-letter system for identifying our hair’s texture, the truth is black women more often than not have various textures throughout their hair. For instance, the hairs nearest the nape of my neck are tight and spirally, while the ones in the middle of my head are wavy. Managing various curl patterns at the same time requires a very specific cleansing and styling routine.

And this usually means that what works for one person—even if they share one of your textures—won’t necessarily work for you. So we spend a lot of time trading information and products, hoping that a mix of advice and experimenting will help us land on a wash-day routine that actually works. In an effort to help you with that advice part, five black women with varying curl patterns, including myself, are sharing the wash day routines that keep their hair healthy and in check.

Routine: I keep my hair pretty short in a low-cut Caesar, so I maintain my hair by using a mixture of almond, olive, and argan oils with some water and glycerin. It helps keep my scalp protected especially in those NYC winter months. I love using Pantene products to wash and condition my hair.

Wearing a durag at night is extremely essential for me to keep my cut lasting fresh and preventing any harsh pulling I get from the pillow at night. In the summertime, I like to bleach my hair platinum blonde. It’s just more fun! I use Shimmer Lights shampoo to keep the color vibrant. I use the same oiling routine, and for added hydration, I use Pantene’s curling custard to combat the harsh sun rays.

Routine: I’ve had my locs for a little over four years now. On wash day, which is about every two to three weeks, I like to lightly brush them to make sure I’m not washing any dust or lint into my hair. I also spray them with a little water beforehand to prevent breakage. I make sure all the buildup is brushed up so my washing can be more effective. Starting in sections, my choice of shampoo is currently Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap, in Peppermint or Tea Tree. This soap has all natural ingredients and is sulfur-free so that I can wash without leaving behind any residue.

After washing, I dry with a T-shirt wrapped around my head. Once my hair is damp and not soaking wet, I add a mixture of coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba, and Jamaican black castor oil to remoisturize my hair and scalp.To style, I use Cantu Shea Butter Twist & Lock Gel along with my spray bottle of water because you never want to twist dry locs! I sleep with a scarf around my edges and a stocking to keep away anything that could get caught in my hair, and maintain moisture by spritzing with water and massaging in my mixture of oils. I like to use all-natural and unprocessed products in my hair. It helps me keep things simple and make sure my hair has a natural and healthy environment to grow!